English Ivy - Hedera helix - Welsh Grown

Scientific Name
Hedera helix (twisting ivy)

Common Name
Comon Ivy, English Ivy, European Ivy, Ivy, Atlantic Ivy

Origin
Native to most of Europe and Western Asia

Description
The humble Hedera helix will look very familiar- many varieties of ivy grow outdoors across the UK and beyond on walls, fences and anywhere they can take root. But have you ever thought of growing this classic foliage plant indoors? We've found a whole new perspective on how beautiful its leaves really are growing along our shelves! This variety has layers of gorgeous leaves maturing from pale spring green to deep emerald. And while you might think ivy can survive anywhere, it can present a challenge indoors- so remember, it thrives outside in cooler, shady spots, and gets plenty of rain. Why not take advantage of this and make that cold porch or less-heated space green?

Light
Bright, indirect light is best- avoid sunny spots as this will burn your ivy. It can tolerate some shade indoors but ensure it's not too dark!

Water
Water once the top two inches of soil has dried out; ivy is not drought-tolerant but also does not like to sit in soggy soil. Make sure to water less frequently in a shady spot.

Humidity
Likes high humidity, but make sure the air around it circulates too. Misting or introducing a humidity tray will help, but if you're misting make sure not to leave the leaves damp for too long, especially in shadier spots.

Soil
Use a well-draining but moisture-retentive mix; one designed for ferns would work well for ivy's similar needs! Repot every three years in spring; adding grit will help keep those in shadier locations draining well.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, and reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Can stand temperatures from -5 to 30°C. Just make sure it's not too hot in summer, and not too close to a radiator in winter.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.

Sprouts Top Tips
For care tips, think about where ivy grows outside and mimic those conditions; make sure you have somewhere for it to grow along or hang down from as it grows longer!